Every corner of Rizal is full of nature escapes, and Mangantila is one of them. It nestles in the heart of Baras, Rizal, with a lush escape reminiscent of Korea’s famous Nami Island.
A picturesque canopy of mahogany trees lines the winding path to lakeside huts and breezy open-air seating—a tranquil setting that makes Mangantila a must-visit destination in Rizal.
What Makes Mangantila Unique
Photo from Juaymah Ferrer
Mangantila is a hidden gem and a native-style restaurant that opened in August 2022. Its name derives from Pangasinan words “mangan” meaning eat, and “tila” meaning us—it’s a place to gather and enjoy fresh, delicious meals in a provincial setting.
Mangantila has its own “Nami Island” that people affectionately refer to and appreciate. It’s enchanting to see the mahogany walkways and feel its tranquil ambiance.
Photo from Juaymah Ferrer
Additionally, diners can enjoy sweeping views of Laguna de Bay, the Sierra Madre mountains, and Pililia’s windmills, all in one panoramic backdrop with cozy nipa-hut cottages—perfect for social gatherings or quiet me-time.
The Services
Photo from Juaymah Ferrer
Mangantila’s staff provides a warm, friendly, and accommodating environment that caters to a wide array of visitors such as couples, groups of friends, and families who enjoy a breezy ambiance and serene lake views.
Mangantila offers catering services that provide a variety of fabulous and mouth-watering food options for different types of events such as weddings, birthdays, and casual gatherings.
Aside from that, Mangantila operates its own coffee shop with breathtaking views where you can sip your favorite drinks, whether they’re hot or cold coffee, or non-coffee-based drinks, frappe, and smoothies. The prices of their drinks range from P78 to P228, varying based on flavor.
Best Sellers:
– Tsokolate de Batirol
– Mangantila Latte
– Matcha Latte
– Brewed Coffee
– Fruit Shakes
Local Tips
– There’s a P30 entrance fee for non-diners, and if you dine-in, it’s waived!
– Their parking space is very spacious with accommodations for cars, bikes, and motorcycles.
– Mangantila operates 24/7.
– They do not accept reservations during weekends and holidays.
– The best time to visit is early morning to watch the sunrise and late afternoons for the golden hour.
Comfort Food
Photo from Mangantila Website
One of Mangantila’s biggest draws is its native Filipino menu and setup that warms both the stomach and the soul. Mahogany trees, a serene lake, and open-air nipa huts surround it, echoing the Filipino appreciation for nature, peace, and rural charm.
The use of native materials and rustic design evoke the countryside living, something many Filipinos associate with simplicity, calmness, and warmth.
Their food selection showcases the diversity of local flavors, such as:
Bagnet: A crispy, twice-fried pork belly dish from Ilocos—symbolizing Ilocano culinary pride and ingenuity in preserving meat.
Alaminos Longganisa: A garlicky, vinegar-rich sausage from Pangasinan that reflects the distinct taste profiles of the north.
Pinakbet: Typically includes a variety of vegetables like eggplant, okra, string beans, squash, and bitter melon. It also originates from the Ilocos region, where it’s a staple dish, especially during the farming season.